Enugu residents defy lassa fever warning, continue drinking garri

Enugu residents defy lassa fever warning, continue drinking garri

AGS NEWS – Despite warnings regarding the resurgence of Lassa fever in some parts of the country, many residents of Enugu State persist in consuming cassava flakes, locally known as garri.

During interviews with NAN on Thursday in Enugu, a variety of residents expressed their stance on the matter.

Mrs. Beatrice Chigbo, a tailor on Agbani Road, stated that she regularly consumes garri, particularly in hot weather, unaffected by the reports of Lassa fever.

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Similarly, Miss Udodi Ibe of Achara Layout mentioned that while she had heard of Lassa fever, she had yet to encounter anyone afflicted by it, making it challenging to forgo drinking garri due to a fever present elsewhere.

Mr. Chukwu Olisa, a beans seller at Mayor Market, shared his enjoyment of garri as a lunchtime staple, emphasizing the difficulty in discontinuing the practice, which he pairs with cold water, groundnut, milk, and sugar.

Another resident, who opted to remain anonymous, pointed out the prevalence of hunger in the country, suggesting that this would only increase the consumption of garri, dismissing any association between the practice and disease.

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However, not all residents remain unconcerned. Miss Juliet Ozo, a teacher, admitted that although garri was one of her preferred meals, she decided to abstain from it in light of the resurgence of Lassa fever.